
Psychomusicology
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​Attention to trauma and its impacts is an important part of my work. I look at life events and human experiences through a psychoanalytic lens and music is no exception. According to William et al. (1981), “psychomusicologist studies the organization of auditory events as meaningful psychological structures of music.” My focus is on the way music impacts the human psyche and the healing effects of music improvisation in working with ramifications of trauma. So far this has led to my doctoral research, some of my publications, a course for psychotherapists, and a presentation for the members of the Canadian Association for Psychodynamic Therapy (CAPT) in October 2024.

Course for Psychotherapists (Focus on Trauma)
Music Improvisation through a Unique Psychodynamic Lens (The Spiegel Academy)
(Online Self-Study Course - Click Here for the Course)
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Using the object relations theory and its emphasis on the relational qualities of humans, this course explains the healing impacts of music improvisation on the human psyche. Learners will engage in group work activities during the class. The course also addresses the value of maintaining a multicultural lens in viewing one’s emotional response to music. There is one homework activity.
Learning Objectives:
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Describe the psychodynamic changes in response to music
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Explain the psychodynamic responses using a psychoanalytic theory
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Utilize music improvisation as a potential part of work in dyads
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Observe and predict possible implicit multicultural biases
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Discuss the sentimental value assigned to musical instruments​